2011 Volkswagen Routan: What's New, Specs & Features
Last updated August 4, 2026
The biggest change for the 2011 Volkswagen Routan is its new lineup-wide 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic, replacing the previous mix of V6 engines. It is not a redesign, but it also gains more standard airbags and several trim-specific equipment updates.
About the 2011 Volkswagen Routan
First and only Routan generation (2009-2014), third model year; notable mechanical and safety update year rather than a redesign.
Volkswagen marketed the Routan as a family minivan with three-row flexibility, sliding-door convenience, and a more polished driving feel than many mainstream rivals. Its core job is moving families and cargo in comfort, with removable second-row seats, a fold-flat third row, and trim steps that add more comfort and convenience features as you move up the lineup. In this model year, the Routan stands out more for everyday practicality and comfort than for sporty styling or luxury-brand image.
For 2011, the S is the straightforward family trim, while the SE adds everyday conveniences such as power sliding doors, Bluetooth, and heated front seats. The SEL focuses on road-trip comfort with leather, heated first- and second-row seats, and navigation; the SEL Premium adds dual-screen rear entertainment, HID headlights, a sunroof, and upgraded audio.
What changed, by category
2011 Volkswagen Routan specs and features by trim
| Feature | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Engine | V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter | V6, 3.6 Liter |
| Transmission | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & AutoStick | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & AutoStick | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & AutoStick | Automatic, 6-Spd w/Overdrive & AutoStick |
| Drivetrain | FWD | FWD | FWD | FWD |
| Fuel Type | Gas | Gas | Gas | Gas |
| MPG City | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg | 17 mpg |
| MPG Highway | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg | 25 mpg |
| Horsepower | 283 hp | 283 hp | 283 hp | 283 hp |
| Torque | 260 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft | 260 lb-ft |
| Max Towing | 3600 lb | 3600 lb | 3600 lb | 3600 lb |
| Trunk/Cargo | 144.4 cu-ft | 144.4 cu-ft | 144.4 cu-ft | 144.4 cu-ft |
| Rear Legroom | 31.8 in | 31.8 in | 31.8 in | 31.8 in |
| Seats | 7 | 7 | 7 | 7 |
| Doors | 4 | 4 | 4 | 4 |
| Automatic Headlights | ||||
| Rear View Camera | ||||
| Alloy Wheels | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Fog Lights | ||||
| HID Headlights | ||||
| Memory Exterior Mirrors | ||||
| Power Moonroof | ||||
| Power Liftgate/Trunk Release | ||||
| Power Sliding Doors | ||||
| Roof Rails | ||||
| Bluetooth | ||||
| Front DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| Navigation System | ||||
| Premium Audio | ||||
| Rear DVD Entertainment System | ||||
| 115V Power Outlet | ||||
| Auto-Dimming Interior Mirror | ||||
| Dual Power Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Front Seats | ||||
| Heated Rear Seats | ||||
| Integrated Garage Door Opener | ||||
| Leather Seats | ||||
| Memory Driver's Seat | ||||
| Memory Pedals | ||||
| Power Adjustable Pedals | ||||
| Power Driver Seat | ||||
| Power Folding Third Row Seat | ||||
| Proximity Keyless Entry | ||||
| Rear Window Shades | ||||
| Remote Start | ||||
| Third Row Seat | ||||
| Tilt Wheel | ||||
| Tri-Zone Automatic Air Conditioning | ||||
Frequently asked questions
What is the biggest change to the 2011 Volkswagen Routan?
The biggest change is a 3.6-liter V6 and six-speed automatic becoming standard on every 2011 Routan trim. This replaces the different V6 engines used in the previous year.
Is the 2011 Volkswagen Routan a full redesign?
No, the 2011 Volkswagen Routan is not a full redesign. It keeps the same overall body and family-focused layout while receiving meaningful powertrain, safety, and equipment updates.
How much power does the 2011 Volkswagen Routan have?
Every 2011 Volkswagen Routan has 283 horsepower from its 3.6-liter V6. That is up from 197 horsepower in the 2010 S and SE and 251 horsepower in the 2010 SEL and SEL Premium.
What safety equipment was added to the 2011 Volkswagen Routan?
The 2011 Routan adds a driver knee airbag and front-seat side airbags as standard equipment across the lineup. The SEL Premium also gains rear parking sensors.
What equipment changed on the 2011 Volkswagen Routan trims?
The S gains removable second-row captain's chairs; the SE adds roof rails, an alarm, and power driver-seat lumbar adjustment; the SEL gets added USB and media-storage functions for its navigation system; and the SEL Premium gains rear parking sensors.